Millimeter-Wave Space-Time Propagation Characteristics in Urban Macrocell Scenarios

The deployment of millimeter-wave (mmWave) wireless communication systems in urban macrocell scenarios with large coverage and cost-efficient transmission schemes is investigated with a focus on space-time propagation characteristics. First, channel measurement campaigns are conducted at two 5G main candidate frequency bands of 28 GHz and 39 GHz in a central business district and a residential area, based on our new-designed time domain channel sounder, which can support directional scanning sounding with less time consumption. Next, using a reasonable data preprocessing method, small-scale channel characteristics across line-of-sight (LoS) and non-LoS (NLoS) links are analyzed via power delay angular profiles, root mean square delay spread, and azimuth and elevation angular spread. Measurement and analysis results show that space-time propagation parameters are layout-related and have further implications on the mmWave system design.